When I confessed my love of the dollar store to a friend, I was informed that it was very “off-brand” for me. But I own it. I’m normally a slightly frivolous spender and definitely am not a good bargain hunter. But the dollar store is my jam! I would go there every single day if I could, and my kids seem to have inherited this love from me. Dollar stores offer so much! Yes, there is some garbage. But there are some real gems there, with a price tag that can’t be beat. Here are 10 of my dollar store mom must-haves — all for just $1!
Toys
Look, sometimes bribery works. And I’m not above using a toy or two to get my kids to behave. At the dollar store, I don’t mind getting them something — knowing it may break or get lost — if it ensures I get well-behaved children at the supermarket. It’s a win for everyone!
Activity books
We love activity books, sudoku, crossword puzzles, and coloring books at my house. We always make sure to pick books up for everyone (including the grown-ups) to keep us busy. This is especially a must before a long trip.
Loofahs
We all love a loofah for the shower! At a dollar apiece, I don’t feel so bad when they inevitably start to fall apart. I also replace them much more regularly (hygiene!) than I would otherwise.
Party supplies
I’m not big into extravagant theme parties. We need basics — plates, tablecloths, balloons, a little decor. I love to pop over to the dollar store and pick up a few things to make the party just a little more fun without going over the top.
Art supplies
Pencils, paper, glue, cardboard, markers — we grab them all. We go through so much of it (both using it and losing it!), and at $1 per item, I don’t feel so bad when the markers stay uncapped or the glue won’t open.
Theme goodies
Hawaiian Day at school? Kids want to wear all green for Saint Patrick’s Day? The dollar store has got you covered with odds and ends to make things fun, fit a theme, and ensure your kids don’t miss out on any of those school dress-up days!
Storage bins
I really like things organized. Order makes me happy. We’ve been slowly stocking up on storage bins and containers to contain messes, organize closets, and keep things where they need to be. The bins may not be the best quality, but they serve their purpose. For things that are out in the open, we splurge on nicer baskets, but for closet organization, the dollar store can’t be beat!
Candy
The dollar store offers some of our favorites in much smaller sizes. Again, bribery. I’m not sorry.
Hair elastics
My daughter and I go through hair elastics like it’s our job. No matter which kind we use, we lose them or break them. My daughter also wants fun colored elastics for her beautiful hair, and at the dollar store I can grab a bunch for her to have fun with.
Little extras
I can’t leave the dollar store without finding something just a little bit fun — lunch box notes, cute stickers, holiday decor. I know they won’t last forever, and I really don’t care. For a dollar, how can I say no?
